Tracing Honolulu’s Arts and Culture From Hawaiian Kings to World War II

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Tracing Honolulu’s Arts and Culture From Hawaiian Kings to World War II

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Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a city with a famously diverse history and culture. You'll find an array of museums showcasing items from Hawaii’s dynastic past, landmarks celebrating past kings, and galleries that focus on local artists. From Christian missionaries to World War II bombings, Honolulu is filled with thrilling tales and visually stunning artifacts.

Historic landmarks

Honolulu's history is vast and intriguing, and the city has landmarks that celebrate its life both as the Kingdom of Hawaii and an American state. You can explore the residence at Iolani Palace, used by Hawaii's royal rulers in the 19th century. Also a must-see, Pearl Harbor is the site of the World War II bombing that changed the course of America's involvement in the conflict.

Pearl Harbor

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed an American naval base here, leading the U.S. into World War II. Today, you can see the haunting USS Arizona and USS Missouri memorials that pay tribute to the lives lost that day.

Historical institutions

Honolulu is home to a plethora of museums that offer insights into various facets of its history and past. You can learn about the history of the American military or even explore the plantation culture of the islands. Other museums outline the influence Christian missionaries had on Honolulu and Hawaii.

Bishop Museum

Founded in 1889, this museum was originally used to preserve the belongings of King Kamehameha's last direct descendant. Today it houses a collection of approximately 25 million artifacts that document the cultures of Hawaii and other Pacific island nations.

Christian missionaries arrived in Hawaii in 1820 determined to spread the Gospel to the natives. This museum showcases their involvement and achievements. You can tour their original buildings, including the oldest wooden structure in Hawaii.

Art museums

In addition to the city's cultural and historical museums, you'll encounter a wealth of art museums and collections in Honolulu. Notable institutions include the Hawaii State Art Museum, which celebrates Hawaiian artists. There's also the Honolulu Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of Hawaiian, American, and European art, including pieces by Renaissance masters.

Hawaii State Art Museum

Opened in 2002, this museum spans 12,000 square feet and contains a collection of Hawaiian artwork. It also houses multiple galleries, including the Diamond Head Gallery and the Ewa Gallery.

Notable sculptures

In addition to Honolulu’s impressive natural landmarks, like Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, it also features notable sculptures throughout the city dedicated to its historic heritage as well as more modern heroes. You’ll find an impressive sculpture of King Kamehameha I, the king who united the Hawaiian Islands in the 18th century, outside the Supreme Court building. The second notable statue pays homage to a king of a different sort, Duke Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer and famous surfer.

Kamehameha I Statue

Located outside Aliiolani Hale, the home of the Hawaii State Supreme Court, this iconic sculpture is the work of American sculptor T. R. Gould. It is adorned with fresh lei every year on the king's birthday.